Opera Takes Time to Root: Reflections from the National Opera's Director
Creatrip Team
3 months ago
Over the past three years the Korea National Opera expanded its repertoire with new Korean works and premieres, staged Wagner’s Tristan und Isolde, started a soloist system to give young artists stages, and broadened education programs to make opera accessible to non-majors. Growth brought praise and sharp criticism; while many critiques came from care and helped reflection, some dismissed behind-the-scenes efforts with sensational lines or unfair Europe comparisons. The company argues it balances demanding regular-season productions with regional performances to increase arts access and builds an ecosystem through collaborations despite limited resources. The director emphasizes that establishing a lasting, high-quality opera scene takes time, patience, meaningful (not destructive) criticism, and continued support.
